Habal-habal drivers support regulation

CEBU, Philippines - With the pending approval of an ordinance that allows the Cebu City government to issue local regulatory franchise to habal-habal, a motorcycle-for-hire drivers group has expressed support for the proposal.

Joverito Contratista, San Roque-Mambaling Riders Association treasurer, said the measure is a good thing so people would be aware that habal-habals are safe, especially that they would be made to undergo seminars.

He warned, though, that even if the measure gets approved, it could not be prevented that there would still be freelance drivers.

“Kahibawo na baya kang number one nga panginabuhian karon sa mga tao habal-habal driver,” he said, adding that they hoped the measure gets passed so they would no longer get apprehended since their operation would already be legal.

Motorcycles are currently still classified as a private, single-passenger mode of transportation and not as a mode of public conveyance.

Winston Loquiño, a part-time habal-habal driver in Barangay Mambaling, Cebu City, said the proposed booking system is also all right with them since it means less hassle to passengers and they would have easier access to a habal-habal unit.

Rolando Abella Jr., president of 2K15 Cebu Rider’s Association Inc., on the other hand, said they would have to select among their members who would join the new scheme stipulated under the proposed ordinance since a professional driver’s license is required.  —/RHM (FREEMAN)